Possible Complications

What to Expect

Prior to Test

No special preparation is needed for this test.

Description of Test

You will be asked to lie on a table. Gel will be placed on the skin of your arm or leg, over the veins being tested.

The ultrasound machine has a hand-held instrument called a transducer, which looks like a microphone or wand. The transducer is pushed against your skin where the gel was applied. The transducer sends sound waves into your body. The waves bounce off structures in the body and echo back to the transducer. The echoes are converted to images that are shown on a screen. The doctor examines the images on the screen. He may make a photograph of them as well.

The technologist may push the probe firmly or softly against your skin in order to better see the vein and to see if it collapses under pressure.

After Test

You can get dressed and go home.

How Long Will It Take?

The length of the test varies, depending on your situation. In most cases, it will take between 15-45 minutes.

Will It Hurt?

In general, this test is not painful. You may feel some mild discomfort as pressure is applied to your arm or leg.

Results

A radiologist, cardiologist, or vascular surgeon will read the images. The test results will be sent to your doctor. Your doctor will notify you of the results and provide you with recommendations.

Call Your Doctor

After the test, call your doctor if any of the following occur:

Your symptoms continue or worsen

You develop any new symptoms

If you think you have an emergency, call for medical help right away.

RESOURCES

Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians
http://familydoctor.org

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

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